We are here to exercise one of our basic rights as free citizens
of a free society. In the crisp eighteenth century language of
the Constitution, it is defined as the right of the people
peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a
redress of grievances.

Our assembly represents more than the exercise of a right and
a privilege. It is an act of civic duty as well. Democracy is
dialogue--active, continuous, informed and responsible dialogue. For a democracy to develop and carry out effective
policies--and especially an effective foreign policy--requires
candor and discipline in that dialogue, on the part of both
the government and of the people.

But candor, discipline and responsibility are qualities that
have been in short supply among us during the last few years.

____________________

Dr. Rostow is Sterling Professor of Law and Public Affairs at Yale University, former undersecretary of state for political
affairs ( 1966-69), and now chairman of the Foreign Policy
Task Force of the Coalition for a Democratic Majority and
president of the Atlantic Treaty Association.

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